5 Strategies for Solo Parenting

  In the first few months, maybe even a year, of being a sole parent, I would get very impatient with women complaining of being a “single mum” when their partners left for business trips or longer assignments away from home. No, I wasn’t just impatient, I was right down angry. What would THEY know about being a truly single parent??? Several years on and I find myself much more … [Read more...]

Once upon a time… Easy Peasy Crowns & Tiaras

  These simple crowns are created from paper scraps so they are cheap to make and you can feel good about recycling at the same time. Of course, we added a few fancy bits and pieces like feathers and plastic jewels but anything goes with this project. This is how we made them...   YOU NEED • Paper scraps, of all shapes, sizes colours and patterns. Some will need to be the … [Read more...]

33 Excuses My Son Has For Not Needing A Shower

My son Mr 9. loved showers and baths. Then he started to grow up. "Mum I don't need  a shower tonight because...." I didn't run today I had one yesterday I went swimming I got wet in the rain I sprayed dad's deodorant on me I used a wet wipe under my arms I haven't used the toilet much My spine hurts (on questioning he didn't know where his spine was) My undies are clean -Look! I … [Read more...]

Blogging: What defines a Sponsored Blog Post?

When I take the time to read a blog post, I only expect honesty. As a reader and as someone who blogs I would appreciate a definition of what is considered sponsored. I have read numerous guidelines and understand disclosure. Nevertheless there are no clear instructions as to when you have to state "This a sponsored blog post". Bloggers have words we want to share online and hope that someone out … [Read more...]

Motherhood and Depression; Help me understand.

  Warning, this post covers the topic of motherhood and depression. As a behaviourist and researcher, my job entails looking at bigger picture as to why people behave the way they do. Do I understand all aspects of human behaviour? Not a chance. The diversity is too great. Can I get my head around motherhood and depression?  Probably not but I hope for a realistic and honest … [Read more...]

Motherhood: Does anyone know this mother?

  I know a mother who tries to get through each day to the best of her ability. Scrap that, all the mothers I know whether they are friends or mothers I work with get through the day the best way they can. Some days are ok, some are not ok and some are total shockers. The days where you feel that you cannot possibly carry on, I know those too. "I hate my life" are words that sadly I hear … [Read more...]

Asking “Why is there such a big age gap between your children?”

Why the Age Gap?  Social mores constantly change. One recent example is questioning a woman if she is pregnant. Today, it’s a faux pas to broach the subject if not raised by the (hopefully!) expectant woman herself. Many firmly believe it’s never okay to ask. “Unless perhaps the baby is crowning.” So is it okay to comment, question or assume about a family’s structure? (Tell someone how many … [Read more...]